Inside Take on the Tony Gonzalez Trade

When I first heard the trade talks about the Falcons acquiring Tony Gonzalez, I wasn't sure what to think.

I thought a second-round draft choice was to high a price to pay for an aging, but yet still productive tight end. Now a week later, I couldn't be happier, and here's why.

I felt the need to write this article because I have lived in Kansas my whole life and ironically, I'm about 10 minutes away from Michael Vick from where I type right now.

I also know that I have probably seen Tony Gonzalez play more than any other Falcons fan.

I have watched Tony Gonzalez play since I was just six years old and I still remember saying, "Daddy, did you see what No. 88 just did?"

Tony Gonzalez is everything you could ever want in an NFL tight end or player for that matter. He never complains even though he has been on a terrible team the last couple of years, he is never a distraction, and he will produce.

Tony Gonzalez is the ultimate iron man. He has only missed two games his entire 12-year career. He has amassed 10,940 receiving yards and caught 76 touchdowns in the best career for a tight end in NFL history. Here's another amazing stat, Tony G has only lost two fumbles his entire career.

Tony Gonzalez is a true hero on and off the field. He does amazing things in the community while still being the most productive tight end in history.

The upside to this trade is that the Falcons will no doubt have a top 5 offense next year and should have the number one offense. Teams will not be able to stack the box against Michael Turner any more with Gonzalez, White, and Jenkins on the field. This trade also means we can focus on defense for the draft.

Don't expect the Falcons to select an offensive player until the fifth round. Many people think this was to much to give up, but would you rather have the Falcons drafted Brandon Pettigrew with the 24th pick?

The downside to the trade is that as good as Gonzalez has been he only has 3-4 years left in the league. Now there is no doubt he will still produce until he retires, and he will provide leadership and experience for Matt Ryan.

I now truly believe every Falcons fan will appreciate this trade as much as I have. So for all you fans down in Georgia, thanks for taking the time to listen to the kid from Kansas.